Brazilian star Everton Ribeiro shocks fans with cancer diagnosis

In a shocking announcement to his fans and football lovers, Brazilian international midfielder Everton Ribeiro revealed yesterday, Tuesday, that he has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer, noting that he underwent surgery last Monday and is now in the recovery phase.

Ribeiro (36 years old) said in an emotional message via his social media accounts:

"Everything went well, I am now in the recovery phase, with the faith and support of my family and all of you."

Interestingly, the player participated last Sunday in his team's victory over his former club Flamengo with a score of 1-0, in the Brazilian league, before undergoing surgery the very next day.

The Brazilian Football Confederation offered Ribeiro "all the strength and positive energy," and several Brazilian clubs, including Flamengo, expressed their solidarity and support for him during this health ordeal.

Everton Ribeiro, who participated in the Qatar 2022 World Cup wearing the Brazil national team jersey, has 22 international matches to his name.

He previously excelled with Flamengo, where he won the Copa Libertadores title twice, and had a professional stint outside Brazil with Al Ahli Club in the UAE between 2015 and 2017, which was his only experience outside his country.

Fans circulated pictures of the player with his teammates Neymar and Richarlison during their participation with the "Seleção," indicating the great support he receives from his colleagues both on and off the field.

Ribeiro is facing one of his toughest battles today, but it is not on the field; it is with the illness, amidst waves of support from the sports community and football fans everywhere, who wish him a speedy recovery and a return stronger than ever.